A few weeks ago, we predicted that the C300 4MATIC would be receiving an update in the power department for 2013. Based on hypothesizing by C/D staff and Benz’s official filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, we surmised that the all-wheel-drive C300’s aging 3.0-liter V-6 would be replaced by a direct-injected 3.5-liter unit based on the 302-hp V-6 found in the C350 and the E350. Mercedes has now confirmed our suspicions.

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Producing 248 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque (the outgoing 3.0-liter made 228 hp and 221 lb-ft), it’s slightly detuned from its specification in the C350 and the E350. To help keep fuel consumption in check, an Eco mode and a stop-start function now come standard on the C300. The all-wheel-drive-only C300 also is only available in sedan form.

-The C350 continues to be available for 2013 as a sedan and an all-wheel-drive coupe. Like the C300, it also adds a stop-start function and an Eco mode as standard.-]]>http://blog.caranddriver.com/mercedes-benz-c300-4matic-to-get-3-5-liter-v-6-for-2013/feed/0